A soldier returns to the United States from active duty in a combat zone. The soldier is diagnosed with posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). The nurse's highest priority is to screen this soldier for which problem?
Schizophrenia
Major depressive disorder
Bipolar disorder
Dementia
The Correct Answer is B
A. While both schizophrenia and PTSD are mental health disorders, the priority in this context for a soldier with a history of combat exposure is to screen for conditions that commonly arise from traumatic experiences, such as PTSD and major depressive disorder.
B. PTSD and major depressive disorder can often co-occur, especially in individuals exposed to trauma. Given the soldier's history of combat exposure and PTSD diagnosis, screening for major depressive disorder is crucial due to its frequent association with PTSD and its potential severity.
C. Bipolar disorder may share some symptoms with PTSD, but given the context of returning from combat and the diagnosis of PTSD, the priority would be to focus on screening for
conditions more directly linked to trauma.
D. Dementia is less likely to be directly related to combat exposure in a returning soldier. While it's essential to assess the soldier's overall mental health, the immediate concern in this scenario would be mental health conditions more commonly associated with trauma.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Rationale for A: Inviting a family member to be present may hinder communication, especially if the family member is involved in the abuse or the client feels unsafe speaking in their presence. Privacy is crucial for encouraging open communication.
Rationale for B: Providing basic wound care is important for physical injuries, but it does not directly address promoting communication. The nurse should focus on creating a safe environment for the client to talk.
Rationale for C: Being direct and honest when speaking with the client promotes trust and open communication. Clients who are suspected of being abused may be fearful or reluctant to share information, so clear, respectful communication helps create a supportive environment.
Rationale for D: Probing the client for a factual account of the abuse may make the client feel pressured or overwhelmed. The nurse should allow the client to share information at their own pace without feeling forced to disclose details.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. Both somatic symptom disorders and dissociative disorders involve psychological distress but are not necessarily under voluntary control.
B. Somatic symptom disorders involve physical symptoms that are a manifestation of psychological distress, while dissociative disorders involve disruptions in memory, identity, perception, and consciousness as a response to stress.
C. Dissociative disorders often occur as a response to ongoing or unresolved stress rather than resolved stress.
D. While both types of disorders can occur across cultures, they are not strictly bound by cultural factors.
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